Knowledge on Management of Traumatic Dental Injury and Related Predictors in Taif, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Objectives: This study was undertaken to investigate the knowledge and attitudes toward pediatric traumatic dental injury (TDI) among the population of Taif, as well as predictors of emergency management and intentions for future education, with an additional focus on the subpopulation of parents. Methods: Data were collected from 345 participants using an anonymous questionnaire that was distributed online and contained four sections: demographics, questions regarding TDI knowledge and previous experiences, questions about the management of two clinical cases, and questions about the self-reported capability to manage future TDIs and the motivation for future education/training. Adjusted linear and logistic regressions were utilized to assess the effect of the different predictors on the total knowledge score, self-reported management capabilities, TDI learning importance, and future education/training interests. Results: The findings revealed poor overall knowledge regarding TDI management, especially in avulsion incidents, with slightly better knowledge in the subpopulation of parents. In the total population, working in a governmental job (p-value = 0.047) or as a freelancer (p-value = 0.006) was associated with higher knowledge, while obtaining any previous TDI information was associated with sufficient management capabilities (p-value = 0.001). Regarding the parent subpopulation, attending a previous TDI educational course was associated with higher knowledge (p-value = 0.043). Similar to the total population, obtaining any previous TDI information was associated with sufficient management capabilities (p-value = 0.001). However, receiving such information from professional resources was associated with lower management capabilities (p-value = 0.033). No significant associations were observed regarding the outcomes of TDI learning importance and future education/training interests. Conclusion: This study highlights significant gaps in the knowledge, awareness, and skills related to pediatric dental injuries and their management among the population of the Taif region. Targeted educational interventions are needed to increase public awareness and bridge the current gaps in knowledge and skills.